The new Ram BackCountry package, which includes off-road features and aesthetic tweaks, will debut at this weekend’s Chicago Auto Show.
On July 12, Ram announced it would expand its 1500 Big Horn and Lone Star models with the all-new 2022 BackCountry Edition. The new package of aesthetic updates and off-road functional features debuts at the upcoming Chicago Auto Show. It will only be available on the Ram 1500 platform.
Mike Koval Jr., CEO of Ram’s parent company, Stellantis, said the BackCountry targets buyers who live “active lifestyles.” He added that the new trim “is the latest example of how Ram trucks deliver features and durability that will continue to win over more and more buyers.”
Ahead of this week’s Chicago reveal, here’s our first look at the Ram 1500 BackCountry.
New Look: Ram BackCountry Aesthetics and Interior
Blacked-out components highlight the 2022 Ram 1500 BackCountry Edition’s novel look. The 1500 rolls on black 18-inch rims, and each of the two-tone paint options come with a black skirt stripe. The trim also adds black badging, exhaust tips, headlamp bezels, mirrors, and running boards.
Elsewhere on the exterior, BackCountry adds a body-color grille surround and tonneau cover. Inside, you’ll find a black interior with bucket seats. A 7-inch touchscreen, BackCountry badge on the instrument cluster, and all-weather slush mats from Mopar (a nice touch for wet or muddy outings) round out the interior.
Off-Road Ready: BackCountry Functionality
Ram sets the BackCountry off with aesthetics, but the performance features are its meat and potatoes. Multiple standard features make the BackCountry ready to handle its namesake terrain.
Standard functional features include Ram’s 4×4 Off-Road Group, which decks the 1500 out with a locking rear axle, tow hooks, off-road calibrated shocks, hill-descent control, and all-terrain tires. Skid plates protect the front suspension, transfer case, and power steering and fuel tanks.
BackCountry standard equipment also includes the Bed Utility Group with adjustable tiedowns, a bed extender (available with RamBox only), deployable bed step, bed lighting, and spray-in bed liner.
Ram has made this trim package available in 4×4 Quad and 4×4 Crew Cab configurations. Available power plants include both its 5.7L V-8 and 5.7L V-8 with eTorque mild-hybrid assist.
MSRP and Chicago Auto Show Info
Ram is set to unveil the 2022 Ram 1500 BackCountry at the Chicago Auto Show, which occurs July 15-19 at the McCormick Place Convention Center. If you’re in the area, it’s worth a look: Tickets for adults cost just $13. Seniors and kids 12 and under get in for $10.
MSRP for the BackCountry starts at $40,085, plus $1,695 in destination. Follow the brand’s Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter feeds for more updates.
